the chinese like california, latin americans, florida, mexican buyers prefer texas. americans bought $82 billion in u.s. homes last year. 7 billion from the chinese who now rank number two just behind canadians in real estate investments. california to new york, the chinese are paying cash for high end multi million dollar homes with special kitchens, in-law suites and koi ponds. >> it's been fantastic for the u.s. housing market because we have not suffered as other communities have. in fact, our property values increased. >> 40% of the chinese buy homes as an investment. sometimes two or three at a time in foreclosure states like nevada and arizona. they're not your typical chinese who earn less than $5,000 a year. they're businessmen and communist party leaders. some looking for a high return. others a part-time residence and a stable future for their family. >> it's a sign of their status, you know. you can show off your friends or family that i can buy something overseas. but everybody can -- not everybody can do it. >> the chinese also get more bang for their b